Valley Widows group visits Genoa Courthouse Museum

Under the organizational skills of Douglas County Historical Society’s Past President Linda Lechien, the Genoa Courthouse Museum welcomed Women of Worth Widows on July 21. The women range in age between 65 and 94.

Years ago, the group was organized at Hilltop Community Church in Carson City to support local area ladies who’ve lost their spouses.

Lechien’s husband passed away 20 years ago. She said the group helps women in need who are hurting, by reaching out and comforting them.

She said outings offer the widows safety and security while exploring and enjoying our beautiful area.

Activities are frequently planned to bring the ladies together, and this past Friday saw the group visiting the historic Courthouse Museum in Genoa.

Under docent Christine Blackburn, and with the assistance of Lechien, the large group was divided into two parts. Those ladies who preferred the ramp rather than the staircase, were gently guided to the side of the building to enter the second floor with its ornate, heavy wooden courtroom.

They continued the tour winding their way through the various rooms filled with history in the former Douglas County Courthouse to Snowshoe Thompson (1827 - 1876) backpacking the mail on skis. The period kitchen and the many antiques in the old fashioned living room brought countless smiles, laughter and fond memories of their great-grandparents to the ladies.

The groups traded and members toured the first floor with its jailhouse, important Washoe exhibit, the period school room, the Pony Express and a very old recorder’s office complete with typewriter, heavy, large safe and filing system.

The Courthouse Museum was honored to have these special visitors. We are thankful this wonderful place we call home cherishes and respects its seniors who have given so much of themselves over the many, many years. If you are a widow, and would like to become part of Women of Worth Widows organization, contact Lechien at rllechien@aol.com or 775-690-9698.